Jamie George wary of Australia fightback in second Test

British and Irish Lions hooker Jamie George believes the second Test against Australia in Melbourne is set to erupt into a highly intense clash, describing the upcoming showdown as one that could “go nuclear”.

The Lions currently lead the series 1-0 following their 27-19 win at Suncorp Stadium, but George has warned that the Wallabies will likely respond with greater physicality.

George is set to feature in the Lions’ midweek match against the First Nations and Pasifika XV on Tuesday. It will be his first appearance of the tour and a crucial chance to stake his claim for a Test spot in Andy Farrell’s squad.

The 33-year-old joined the Lions after being called up from England’s Argentina tour as injury cover.

Reflecting on the first Test, George praised his side’s dominant performance, particularly in terms of physicality. “In the first half of that Test, the physicality that I saw from the Lions team was something else. Tom Curry was on jet fuel. It was crazy. There were some seriously good performances,” he said.

Despite the victory, George expects a much-improved Australian side in the second Test.

Key forwards Will Skelton and Rob Valetini, who missed the opening match due to calf injuries, are expected to return to the Wallabies lineup, significantly bolstering their pack.

“There’s talk of them bringing in some pretty big hitters,” George noted. “That means they’re going to be a much better team. Is Test two going to go nuclear? I imagine so, from both sides.”

The second Test is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 26 in Melbourne.